Nestled in the Swiss Alps, Zermatt, home to the iconic Matterhorn, stands as a beacon for travelers worldwide. Its allure is undeniable, but the journey from Zurich to Zermatt often leaves many pondering the best approach. If you’re wondering if it’s possible to drive to Zermatt, if you’re considering taking the train from Zurich to Zermatt, or if you’re interested in booking an organized tour or day trip, read on to find out.
This comprehensive guide delves into the various modes of travel to Zermatt from Zurich, unraveling the nuances of each option. From the swift and straightforward to the leisurely scenic journey on the Glacier Express train. We have been to Zermatt on a number of occasions by all means of transport and can tell you personally about the advantages of using them.
Discover all the information you need to know about traveling from Zürich to Zermatt – the cost, discounts, and travel pass options are all covered below.
How far is Zermatt from Zurich
The alpine village of Zermatt, a destination that draws in visitors from all around Europe. But how does one reach this remote mountain town, located a mere 162 kilometers (101 miles) away from the bustling city of Zurich and its airport? The journey can take anywhere between three to four hours, depending on the mode of transport chosen.
| Mode of Transport & Route | Duration |
| Train direct route – Zürich HB to Zermatt | 3h 14min |
| Train Glacier Express – Zürich HB to Chur to Zermatt | Ca. 9h 30min |
| Car – Zurich via. Bern & Kandersteg | 4h 3min |
| Car – Zurich via. Andermatt | 3h 35min |
For those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the mountains, taking the scenic route on the Glacier Express train may be the best option. This historic train winds its way through the Swiss Alps, offering unparalleled views of snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows.
Alternatively, for those looking for a quicker and more direct journey, traveling by intercity trains or car may be the best choice. Regardless of the mode of transport, below you will find detailed information about each of the options available, allowing you to select the one that best suits your plans and travel style.
Fastest Train from Zurich to Zermatt
Usually you start your journey at Zurich Airport or at Zurich Main Station. The final destination, Zermatt Bahnhof, is the main station in Zermatt.
If you’re flying directly into Switzerland, taking a train from Zurich Airport to Zermatt is a convenient option as the station is located directly in the Arrivals Hall (the airport station is called Zurich Flughafen in German).
All trains from Zurich airport to Zermatt also pass through Zurich main station (Zürich Hauptbahnhof/Zürich HB), where you will board when in town.
The train ride from Zurich Airport takes around 3.5 hours, while the journey from Zurich Main Station takes slightly less, around 12 minutes less to be exact. You will likely have to change trains at least once, in Visp.
Zürich Flughafen to Zermatt
- Zurich Airport to Visp: 2 hours 17 minutes
- Visp to Zermatt: 1 hour 6 minutes
- Total travel time: 3 hours 29 minutes
Zürich HB to Zermatt
- Zurich Main Station to Visp: 2 hours
- Visp to Zermatt: 1 hour 6 minutes
- Total travel time: 3 hours 14 minutes
Train Tickets
When it comes to traveling by train in Switzerland, one of the most important things to consider is the cost of your ticket. Standard adult ticket prices for the journey to Zermatt from Zurich start at around CHF 65 (Swiss francs), or approximately 70 US dollars. If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, first class tickets are also available at a higher cost. It’s always a good idea to check current ticket prices before you book your journey.
| Options | Price |
| 2. Class Ticket – Full Price | CHF 130.- |
| 2. Class – Half Fare Card | CHF 65.- |
| Swiss Travel Pass | CHF 0.- |
One option to keep in mind is the Swiss Travel Pass, which covers all public transport in Switzerland. If you’re planning to take other train journeys during your trip, this pass can be a great value. Another option is the Half Fare card, which allows you to get half price on all your train and public transport tickets in Switzerland.
Traveling with children? Children under the age of 6 travel for free on Swiss trains, and older children can also travel for free if they have a Junior Card. This card costs around CHF 30 per child, and applies to children aged 6 and 15 years 11 months. If the adults in the group hold a Swiss Travel Pass or a Half Fare card, children aged 6 to 15 also travel for free.
Schedule
This website is a one-stop-shop for all your train travel needs in Switzerland. You can easily search for train schedules, purchase tickets, and plan your journey.
If you’re traveling by train in Switzerland, the SBB app is your indispensable companion: easy to use, find the right connections in a flash and buy your tickets straight away.
To use the website or app, simply enter your arrival and departure destinations, and it will guide you through the journey. It will show you the available train schedules, the cost of the tickets, the duration of the journey, and even the seating arrangements. It’s a great way to make sure your journey is smooth and stress-free.
Is this Train Route From Zurich to Zermatt Scenic?
The Intercity trains that travel from Zurich to Bern are not specifically designed for scenic journeys. These trains are built to transport passengers quickly and efficiently between the two cities.
As a result, they reach high speeds, particularly while traversing the Zurich to Bern section. While you can still see the scenery during the ride, it’s not the slow and steady experience you would get on a dedicated scenic train.
However after Bern, the train leads to the Bernese Highlands and the landscape becomes correspondingly more picturesque
After Visp, the journey continues through the valleys of the Valais into the mountains high up to Zermatt. The trains also drive slower, allowing for a better view of the surrounding landscape. If you’re looking for a truly scenic train experience, there are other options available.
Scenic Train – Glacier Express to Zermatt
When it comes to traveling from Zurich-Zermatt, the Glacier Express is an option that is worth considering, even though it may not be the most direct route. This spectacular journey is a highlight of any holiday to Switzerland and one of the most scenic trips you can take anywhere, offering breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps.
To experience this option, travelers will first need to make their way from Zurich HB or airport to Chur, which takes around an hour and 15 minutes. Once in Chur, you can board the Glacier Express and begin your journey to the alpine village.
The train will take you through Andermatt and Brig, providing an opportunity to see the picturesque Swiss Alps in all its glory.
Zermatt from Zurich by Car
However, as a car-free resort, travelers may wonder how to reach it by car. Renting a car and driving to Zermatt is still possible, but you cannot drive directly into village itself.
You’ll need to park in the nearby village of Täsch and take a shuttle train to Zermatt. Parking in Tasch costs around CHF 16.- for 24 hours and the return shuttle train tickets costs about CHF 17.- for a standard adult fare. In the village itself are electric taxi and bus services available.
The trip from Zurich to Täsch by car typically takes between 3 and 4 hours. There are two main routes between Zurich and Zermatt, via Andermatt or via Kandersteg and the Lötschberg Tunnel.
The route via the Lotschberg Tunnel is especially interesting as you need to drive your car onto a special train for the 16-minute trip through the tunnel.
FAQ
Is there a direct train from Zurich to Zermatt?
There are no direct train services. While traveling from Zurich to Zermatt by train, a transfer at Visp is required, with all intercity connections involving this change.
Can you do a day trip from Zurich to Zermatt?
Yes, a day trip from Zurich is feasible. With a travel time of just over 3 hours, you can depart Zurich early, for instance, taking the first connection at 06:02 AM, arriving in Zermatt by 09:14 AM. This schedule allows ample time to explore Zermatt and its surrounding mountains. However, don’t forget to plan for your return journey.
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Final Thoughts
Zermatt, the abode of the renowned Matterhorn and a paradise for ski enthusiasts, is easily accessible from Zurich by train services. However, before embarking on your alpine adventure, consider a few key points. The intercity trains from Zurich to Bern are not scenic, so for a more picturesque journey, opt for the Glacier Express. Additionally, direct car access to Zermatt is not possible; parking in Täsch and taking a shuttle train is necessary. Lastly, evaluate if a Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare card could be economically beneficial for your journey.
In conclusion, based on our experiences during recent visits to Zermatt, traveling by train is the most straightforward option. While driving to Zermatt is possible, it involves parking in Täsch and then taking a taxi or another train, which adds waiting time and extra costs. The train journey, with just a single transfer in Visp, offers relative comfort.
